It's Monday - Join Kirk and Friends for a Discussion About "Desire!" with Warrior for Life (WFL) TONIGHT!
- Col (Ret) Mikel Burroughs
- 9 hours ago
- 3 min read
Come join Volunteer, Peer Support Specialist Kirk Poe for "Awaken Your Inner Healer!" edition of Warriors for Life (WFL) Online, sponsored and presented by Victory for Veterans, Inc. (VFV).
We are asking everyone to share who we are and the support that Victory for Veterans, Inc. (VFV) provides through Warriors for Life (WFL). If you know someone who is a veteran, first responder or a family member/caregiver, please ask them to join us for at least one meeting so they can learn more about what we do and how they can share their wisdom with others who may be able to learn from them.
TONIGHT's Topic: "Desire!"
Join Kirk and Friends, TONIGHT and let's get together online for the Warriors for Life (WFL) as we discuss "Desire!" and mental health. How does "Desire" affect your mental health or invisible wounds?
In the context of mental health and "invisible wounds," Desire acts as a powerful emotional driver that can either fuel recovery or deepen psychological distress. For veterans, first responders, and their families, desire often manifests as a longing for the "old self," a drive for purpose, or a craving for relief from trauma symptoms.
The Impact of Desire on Mental Health
"Desire" is a double-edged sword when navigating invisible wounds like PTSD, depression, or moral injury.
Positive Aspects of Desire
Fuel for Recovery: A strong desire to heal or return to a functional life can be the primary motivator for seeking therapy, such as Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy.
Restoration of Purpose: The desire to serve others—often rooted in the original "calling" of military or first responder work—can help individuals find a new mission in civilian life, fostering resilience and post-traumatic growth.
Social Connection: The desire for belonging encourages individuals to step out of isolation and join peer support groups, which are vital for validation and emotional safety.
Negative Aspects of Desire
The Longing for "Normal": vA persistent desire to be the person one was before the trauma can lead to hopelessness and grief when that version of the self feels unattainable.
Escapism: When the pain of invisible wounds is overwhelming, the desire for immediate relief can manifest as substance abuse or other high-risk behaviors as a way to "numb out".
Avoidance Patterns: The desire to avoid triggers or painful memories can lead to chronic social withdrawal, which reinforces loneliness and worsens depressive symptoms.
Tips for Veterans, First Responders, and Families
Managing desire effectively requires balancing current reality with future goals.
For Individuals (Active Duty, Veterans, Responders):
Acknowledge the Pain: Healing starts by admitting the "desire for things to be different" and acknowledging the reality of the trauma.
Reframing Success: Instead of desiring to be "cured," focus on the desire for "management and growth." Use tools like the VA's Make the Connection to see how others have redefined their lives.
Schedule "Joy": Intentionally schedule activities you once enjoyed, even if the desire to do them isn't there yet. This "behavioral activation" can help restart natural dopamine production.
For Caregivers and Family Members:
Listen Without Fixing: Your loved one may express a desire to "just be normal." Offer a non-judgmental ear rather than trying to solve the problem immediately.
Monitor for Isolation: Gently address changes in behavior, such as a loss of desire for family time or hobbies, which can be a sign of functioning depression.
Seek Parallel Support: Caregivers often experience their own "invisible wounds." Utilize resources like Military OneSource for confidential counseling to manage your own stress and needs.
Universal Resources:
Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then Press 1, or text 838255 if the desire for relief turns into thoughts of self-harm.
Specialized Care: Seek providers with specific trauma training who understand the unique culture of service.
Warriors for Life (WFL) Online "Awaken Your Inner Healer!" edition presented by Victory for Veterans, Inc. (VFV) - Monday (TONIGHT), April 13, 2026 @ 4:30 PM PT, 5:30 PM MT, 6:30 PM CT, & 7:30 PM ET
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86121340012
Thank you,
Kirk Poe, Certified Peer Support Specialist, Reiki Master, Certified Body/Emotion/Belief Code Practitioner, & Volunteer Facilitator, Victory for Veterans, Inc. (VFV)